UNICEF Responds to Deadly Earthquake in Eastern Afghanistan

KABUL/TORONTO – A devastating 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck Afghanistan’s Nangarhar and Kunar provinces late last night, claiming hundreds of lives, injuring thousands, and causing widespread destruction of homes and infrastructure. The death toll, which includes many children, is expected to rise as rescue and recovery efforts continue.

UNICEF Mobilizes Immediate Relief

UNICEF Afghanistan confirmed that its teams are already on the ground in the affected regions. Working with local partners and other UN agencies, the organization is prioritizing life-saving assistance for children and families.

Mobile health teams have been deployed to the hardest-hit districts of Chawkay and Nurgal in Kunar province, providing first aid and urgent medical care. At the same time, UNICEF-supported health facilities in Nangarhar and Kunar are treating the injured as hospitals face mounting pressure.

Critical Emergency Supplies Delivered

In response to the crisis, UNICEF is distributing emergency supplies, including:

• Medicines and medical equipment

• Hygiene kits (soap, detergent, towels, sanitary pads, water buckets)

• Warm clothing, shoes, and blankets

• Kitchen essentials for families who lost their homes

• Temporary shelters such as tents and tarpaulins

The agency is also focusing on safe water, sanitation, nutrition, child protection, and psychosocial support for children affected by the disaster.

A Humanitarian Priority

Dr. Tajudeen Oyewale, UNICEF Afghanistan Representative, emphasized that the agency is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life and remains committed to supporting children and families impacted by the earthquake.

“This is a rapidly evolving situation, and UNICEF will continue to scale up our humanitarian response in support of the affected communities,” UNICEF said in its statement.

About UNICEF

As the world’s leading humanitarian organization focused on children, UNICEF works across more than 190 countries and territories to deliver healthcare, safe water and sanitation, education, and emergency relief. While part of the UN system, UNICEF’s programs are funded entirely by voluntary donations. Canadians can learn more or support ongoing relief efforts at unicef.ca.

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